What Is an Automatic Transfer Switch?

ATS systems are essential for power critical settings like hospitals, utilities, data centres and industrial facilities.

While crucial to many commercial situations, many homeowners also enjoy the benefits of continuous power by installing an automatic transfer switch to their backup generator system. Read on to discover more about this vital power component.

How an Automatic Transfer Switch Works

Transfer switches are used to split power supply between the primary source and a backup supply, like a generator. They work using a microprocessor-based controller that monitors incoming power from the grid. If a fall in voltage/frequency is detected, it automatically switches the load to the backup power supply.

When the mains power is restored, the load is automatically switched back. The switch mechanism prevents power from being fed to both supplies at the same time, which would cause an overload; this is known as back-feeding, and it carries a risk to utility workers and severe damage to equipment.

Key Benefits

• Uninterrupted Power Supply, essential for healthcare, telecommunications, manufacturing, financial institutions and more.
• Operates safely preventing backfeeding to the grid.
• Automatically detects power outages and switches to emergency power with no need for manual intervention.
• Meets safety codes and insurance requirements in many critical settings.

An automatic transfer switch means you have instant access to the power you need.

Where Are ATS Systems Used?

An automatic transfer switch (ATS) automatically transfers the electrical load from a primary power source to a backup source during a power outage. Having an ATS makes generators and uninterruptable power supply (UPS) systems more resilient. Automatic Transfer Switches are typically used in situations where a continuous power supply is essential, such as in hospitals, data centres and other vital applications.

While they are fundamental to many industries, automatic transfer switches can be a useful addition to smaller residential settings.

Automatic Transfer Switch for Generators

In situations where an uninterrupted power supply is needed, installing an automatic transfer switch is essential. An ATS will continually monitor the primary power supply for voltage and frequency.

It seamlessly transfers the load to the backup generator supply, as soon as a fall in power is detected, and contains mechanical and electrical interlocks to prevent both power sources from connecting at the same time.

Automatic Transfer Switch for Solar Panels

In the naturally irregular world of solar power, integrating an automatic transfer switch into your power network offers considerable benefits.

When the electricity from solar panels is sufficient, the ATS will feed solar energy, and when solar power falls, the switch will transfer load to the grid or a battery backup. A continuous, steady power supply can easily be achieved using an automatic transfer switch in a solar system.

Automatic transfer switch units provide complete peace of mind where continuous power is critical, offering a seamless transition to backup power during power outages and fluctuations.